Council Members

Useful Documents and Links

The following documents provide current or recent information about the Libyan business scene and practical advice about how to succeed doing business in Libya. Watch this space as new information will be posted here as it becomes available. We welcome submissions to this listing - please contact ppreston@lbbc.org.uk

GardaWorld Weekly Security Update

Author/Source: GardaWorld

Date: 3rd Feb 2018

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

GardaWorld

.Xplored risk analysis and reporting:

GardaWorld risk reports for Libya are produced in country and contain the very latest ground-truth information that analyses the current security situation, political, regulatory and cultural challenges. Reports are designed for people with operational reporting requirements and can support staff deployment and movement plans with their up-to-date review of current threat levels or risk in Libya.

Director General's Newsletter, December 2017

LBBC-BACB Delegation to Tunis

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, Director-General LBBC

Date: 14th Dec 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:The LBBC, working in partnership with BACB, led a delegation to Tunis to meet Libyan official and business representatives from 20-22 November. Twenty four LBBC member companies were represented. BACB’s team, led by CEO Paul Hartwell, were our well-chosen partner, providing invaluable support, sponsorship and participation. Bank ABC sponsored the well-attended welcome reception. Ahmed Ben Halim of Libya Holdings, a key member and ally of the LBBC, accompanied the delegation to Tunis.

LBBC-BACB Delegation to Tunis

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, Director-General LBBC

Date: 14th Dec 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

1.The LBBC, working in
partnership with BACB, led a delegation to Tunis to meet Libyan official and
business representatives from 20-22 November.
Twenty four LBBC member companies were represented. BACB’s team, led by
CEO Paul Hartwell, were our well-chosen partner, providing invaluable support,
sponsorship and participation. Bank ABC sponsored the well-attended welcome
reception. Ahmed Ben Halim of Libya Holdings,
a key member and ally of the LBBC, accompanied the delegation to Tunis.

Libya Monitor - Key Developments

Author/Source: Unity Resource Group

Date: 5th Dec 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:Unity is a leading provider of effective solutions to business, governments and organisations pursuing success in challenging and high risk environments.

LBBC/BACB Delegation to Tunis

Author/Source:

Date: 26th Jul 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:Inspired by the success of the LBBC mission to Malta last December, we are organising a business delegation to Tunis from 20 to 22 November, to meet Libyan businesses in the state and private sectors. With its ease of access for business people from all parts of Libya, Tunis is the perfect destination to host this event.

Director General's Newsletter 14 July 2017

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, Director-General LBBC

Date: 25th Jul 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Inkerman Group

Author/Source:

Date: 28th Apr 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:The Inkerman Group is a specialist risk and intelligence company that delivers tools, techniques and methodologies to counter or mitigate threats to organisations and businesses and has been producing its present range of insightful Libya intelligence publications since the current period of instability began.

Director General's Newsletter 10 April 2017

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, Director-General LBBC

Date: 10th Apr 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:Political rivalries and armed conflict continue to torment the Libyan people, interrupt oil exports and curtail reconstruction, development and the resumption of business. This newsletter is not the place for a comprehensive account but a few examples will illustrate the picture.

Statement from Sir Vincent Fean, Chairman, LBBC

Author/Source:

Date: 29th Jan 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:LBBC criticism of President Trump’s Executive Order on immigration:

Donald Trump is making many deplorable mistakes. The Libyan British Business Council condemns this truly grave error, disrupting the lives of so many innocents. The dignified Libyan people deserve our loyal help as they work to rebuild their country. As the US closes its doors, the UK must open ours wider to welcome as friends Libyan business visitors, students, tourists and those needing medical care. This crass US misjudgment will serve only to strengthen still further Libyan / British cooperation, to mutual benefit.

Sir Vincent Fean KCVO

Chairman

Director General's Newsletter 9 January 2017

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, Director-General LBBC

Date: 9th Jan 2017

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:Politics and Business in Libya 2017

To read the Report click on the padlock [LBBC Members only]

MS Risk - Ports Update

Author/Source: MS Risk

Date: 19th Oct 2016

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

MS Risk supports clients in a variety of business sectors with research, investigative activity, crisis response, project management and consulting services. MS Risk enjoys strong links working in partnership with and supporting law enforcement and military agencies. It has completed projects for clients around the world and in sectors such as natural resources, maritime, supply chain, financial services, media, hospitality, construction engineering and for the legal profession.

Vacancy: Business Development Manager

Author/Source: International Safety Training College

Date: 5th Apr 2016

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

International Safety Training College (ISTC) provides consultancy and training in emergency response, disaster management, fire safety and health and safety in the MENA region and beyond. For information about the Business Development Manager vacancy with ISTC view the PDF document (click the READ MORE button).

LBBC Chairman's Leaving Statement March 2016

Author/Source: Sir Dominic Asquith

Date: 8th Mar 2016

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Outgoing LBBC Chairman Sir Dominic Asquith's statement to LBBC members: "It is with considerable regret that I must announce that I am standing down today as Chairman of the LBBC..."

Notes on LBBC Council Lunch, 14 September 2015

Author/Source: Robin Lamb

Date: 1st Oct 2015

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

HM Ambassador to Libya, Mr Peter Millett, was the LBBC’s guest at a Council Lunch at the RAF Club on 14 September 2015. Not all members were able to attend and hear what he had to say but Mr Millett has kindly agreed that I may share my notes of the remarks I found particularly interesting.

To read the complete report click on the padlock link (LBBC Members only):

LBBC Director General's Newsletter October 2014

Author/Source: Robin Lamb

Date: 7th Oct 2014

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Dear Colleague,

My apologies that this newsletter is overdue but as I write, a political process has begun, orchestrated by the UN with the support of the US, UK and Maltese governments, which offers Libya a possible escape from the downward political and security spiral it has experienced this year.

To read the complete report click on the padlock link (LBBC Members only):

LBBC Director General's Newsletter July 2014

Author/Source: Robin Lamb

Date: 29th Jul 2014

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Message from Robin Lamb LBBC Director General (July 2014)

Libya 2014/2015 – Discovering Business

Author/Source: Allurentis in association with UK Trade & Investment.

Date: 4th Jun 2014

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Having successfully emerged from its Revolution in 2011, Libya offers multiple opportunities for British business, but there are still significant challenges. The country’s infrastructure is poor and badly in need of the huge scale of investment planned by the Government, but turning plans into reality will take patience and determination.

To read the complete report click on the link

LBBC Director General's Newsletter June 2014

Author/Source: Robin Lamb

Date: 2nd Jun 2014

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Dear Colleague,

Over the last three years, we have become used (inured? resigned?) to a Libya where the politics is atomized and competing militias challenge government, parliament the public’s and external partners’ patience in pursuit of their ideological, regional, personal or pecuniary objectives. At the same time, the very multiplicity of militias, their regional sponsors and parliamentary allies have acted as a brake on each other’s ambitions and on the risk of civil war.

A European agenda to support Libya’s transition

Author/Source: Mattia Toaldo [European Council on Foreign Relations]

Date: 23rd May 2014

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Libya has not come far since overthrowing Colonel Muammar Gaddafi. Political institutions lack legitimacy and are riven by factional discord. Tensions between the centre and periphery show no sign of lessening, and a protracted blockade of oil ports spells dire economic consequences. Indeed, three years after the revolution, Libya has reached a critical juncture, with deadlines for key steps, including elections and a new constitution,

looming and unlikely to be met.

Report on LBBC Council Lunch: 27 March 2014

Author/Source: LBBC Director General

Date: 1st Apr 2014

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Dear Colleagues

On 27 March, LBBC Chairman Sir Dominic Asquith hosted a Council Lunch at the RAF Club in Piccadilly, inaugurating the new series of LBBC Council Lunches. Our guest speaker was Assad Riyany, Head of Treasury Sales at the ABC International Bank. Please click on the link below to view his presentation* (PowerPoint) which focuses on the Libyan banking sector, its historically limited role in the wider economy and more recent activity, with some recommendations for the future.

Besides the formal presentation, there was a wide ranging discussion among those present. Some of the views expressed by those present included the following observations and comments.

Private sector food and consumer goods businesses have flourished, drawing on financing facilities from the banks, with the Central Bank (CBL) providing the necessary foreign exchange against proper documentation. Although public sector economic activity has been limited, the General Electricity Company of Libya (GECOL) has obtained CBL and Ministry approval of a LD1bn ($800 million) budget. Similarly, the Housing & Infrastructure Board (HIB) has agreed financing arrangements direct with the banks, with Ministry of Housing approval. PPP is an attractive route for future infrastructure financing because of its implications for good governance and better control for the banks over loan capital. Meanwhile, some outstanding debt has been paid to foreign companies and there is general goodwill towards the UK and British companies pursuing business in Libya would be welcomed.

In discussion of the political context, it was noted that the general feeling among Libyans was that no excuses for government inactivity were any longer acceptable. Islamist politicians may have had enough influence in the GNC to obstruct Ali Zaidan's attempts to get things done but their strength was not reflected among the wider population: Libyans were good Muslims but not Islamists. Abd Rabbo Al Barasi and Ibrahim Jadran had less support in eastern Libya than outsiders might assume from their endurance: their support from tribal leaders was waning and the Misurata and Zintani militias would have been able to overcome Jadran's forces if political and other leaders had not restrained them with the aim of avoiding further bloodshed between Libyans. Barasi recognised this and had dropped the conditions he had set last week for talks with the government in Tripoli. These developments, along with the symbolism of the Cabinet meeting in Ghat, had created a new and hopeful dynamic for continued constitutional and political development.

Those at the lunch agreed that this inaugural event had been a good use of their time and a promising start to our Council Lunches. Our second lunch is only two weeks away and we look forward to seeing members there. The details have been circulated separately. Come and hear what one of Libya's leading private sector businessmen has to say!

*This presentation is only accessible to LBBC members using their personal login details. If you require help or a reminder of your username/password please contact secretariat@lbbc.org.uk

Reconstructing Libya: Stability Through National Reconciliation

Author/Source: The Brookings Doha Center: Ibrahim Sharqieh

Date: 3rd Dec 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

More than two years since the death of Muammar al-Qaddafi, the euphoria of revolution has worn off as Libya faces a multitude of difficulties. In addition to more immediate security issues, Libya struggles with questions about the past actions of the Qaddafi regime. How are those responsible for past crimes to be held accountable? And how can a deeply divided and highly militarized society establish the foundations of a more stable and secure political order?

In a new Analysis Paper by the Brookings Doha Center, Ibrahim Sharqieh highlights the urgent need for Libyans to embark on a credible and comprehensive process of national reconciliation. Drawing on extensive field research and interviews with key Libyan actors, Sharqieh argues that Libya must reassess its current legislation on the political isolation of old regime officials, launch an inclusive national dialogue process, and introduce comprehensive institutional reforms of the security services, the state bureaucracy, the media, and the judiciary.

Available in English and Arabic

SEEKING SECURITY: PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY IN LIBYA - November 2013

Author/Source: JMW Consulting

Date: 26th Nov 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

As Libya proceeds through a political transition launched following the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and JMW Consulting are conducting a series of nationwide public opinion surveys with funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark. These surveys are designed to assess Libyan attitudes toward the transition, citizen confidence in political leaders and newly created institutions; and to solicit opinions on a range of issues facing the country. Diwan Market Research, a public opinion firm based in Tripoli, Libya, is conducting these surveys in collaboration with JMW Consulting. NDI is utilizing survey findings as part of a broader program to support the development of democratic and representative Libyan political parties.

The report contains findings from the second survey, conducted nationwide from September 10 to 30, 2013. These findings aggregate the results of face-to-face interviews with 1,200 Libyan respondents. Respondents were randomly selected in a probability-proportional-to-size sampling and were interviewed in all 13 governorates of Libya.

Security Council Report: Libya November 2013 Monthly Forecast

Author/Source: UNSMIL

Date: 31st Oct 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

In November, the Council will receive the semi-annual briefing by ICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda on recent developments concerning cases in Libya.

LBBC Delegation to Libya - Sept 2013: Record of Proceedings

Author/Source: Robin Lamb: LBBC Director General

Date: 7th Oct 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Sir Dominic Asquith KCMG led an LBBC multi-sector business delegation to Tripoli from 22 to 26 September 2013. The delegation was formed of fifteen senior businessmen representing ten UK firms. Mohammed Fezzani, a Director of the LBBC, also accompanied the delegation which was supported by Robin Lamb (Director General) and Pauline Graham (Events Director).

LBBC Business Delegation to Libya - Sept 2013: Guide to Delegates

Author/Source: LBBC

Date: 30th Sep 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

The official guide to delegates who attended the LBBC Business Delegation to Libya, September 2013, including an introduction by the Mission Leader Sir Dominic Asquith KCMG

British Business Leaders Round Table - Q&A with Ali Zeidan

British business leaders from a number of industry sectors with portfolios in Libya met in London on the 17 September 2013 to put their questions to Prime Minister Ali Zeidan and to exchange views about the current and future business opportunities in Libya. Lord Trefgarne and Robin Lamb attended the meeting - the LBBC being the only trade association present.

Believing in Democracy: Public Opinion Survey in Libya (August 2013)

Author/Source: JMW Consulting and National Democratic Institute

Date: 21st Aug 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

As Libya proceeds through its political transition, a process set in motion by the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and JMW Consulting are conducting a series of nationwide public opinion surveys with funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark. These surveys will assess Libyan attitudes toward the transition, citizen confidence in political leaders and newly created institutions, and opinions on a range of issues facing the country. This report contains findings from the first study, conducted nationwide from May 10 to 30, 2013.

LBBC Member's Annual Luncheon at the House of Lords - Record of Proceedings

Author/Source: LBBC Director General Robin Lamb

Date: 26th Jun 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Lord Trefgarne hosted the LBBC’s Annual Lunch in the Cholmondeley Room at the House of Lords on 20 June 2013. The guest speaker was Mohammed Ali Abdallah, President of the National Front Party, a member of the General National Congress (GNC) and of its Budget, Planning & Finance, and Telecommunications & Transport Committees.

Click on this link to read the full record of proceedings...

'Dashed expectations? Tighter rules for FDI in Libya'

Author/Source: Geoffrey Howard, North Africa Analyst, Control Risks

Date: 3rd Jun 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Former Libyan leader Muammar al-Gadhafi’s historically apathetic and occasionally hostile attitude towards foreign investment was showing signs of change in the years leading up to the 2011 uprising. Driven mainly by the need to remedy economic stagnation, the regime since the 1990s had taken steps to end Libya’s status as an international pariah and facilitate inward investment. A law passed in 2006 allowed foreign investors to form joint stock companies (JSCs) with Libyan shareholders and allowed foreign ownership stakes of up to 65%. The 2010 Investment Law allowed 100% foreign ownership across a broad range of sectors and offered investors tax breaks for specific projects.

LBBC Director General's Newsletter May 2013

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 30th May 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:"It has been said that revolutions devour their children. In Libya’s case at the moment, it looks as if its revolution is consuming its parents..."

ILAC Rule of Law Assessment Report, Libya 2013

Author/Source: International Legal Assistance Consortium (ILAC)

Date: 9th May 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:From 15 to 24 January 2013, an eight-person team of experts from member organisations of the International Legal Assistance Consortium (ILAC) conducted an intensive review of numerous justice sector institutions in Libya. This review also examined several crosscutting issues facing the justice sector in the aftermath of the 2011 revolt.

Click on the READ MORE button to view the complete report.

Press Release: Sir Dominic Asquith to lead LBBC mission to Tripoli and Misurata, May 2013

Author/Source: LBBC Events

Date: 24th Apr 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

The Libyan British Business Council (LBBC), the leading trade association and membership organisation serving the UK-Libyan business community, is delighted to announce that former British Ambassador to Libya, The Hon Sir Dominic Asquith, KCMG will be mission leader of the forthcoming LBBC Business Delegation to Tripoli and Misurata, May 12–16 2013.

Notes from the LBBC Chairman's meeting with Libyan PM Ali Zaidan

Author/Source: LBBC

Date: 26th Feb 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:At the invitation of Mr Ali Zaidan, Prime Minister of Libya, the Chairman of the Libyan British Business Council (LBBC) visited Tripoli from 20-22 February 2013 and called on the Prime Minister on 21 February 2013. Lord Trefgarne was accompanied by Mr Oliver Miles, Vice-Chairman of the LBBC and a former British Ambassador to Libya. Lord Trefgarne and Mr Miles also met members of the Board of the Libyan Businessmen Council in Tripoli.

LBBC Business Delegation Jan 2013: Record of Proceedings

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 31st Jan 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:The Director General's report is a succinct record of proceedings of the LBBC's multi-sector delegation to Libya which took place earlier this month (January 2013).

LBBC Business Delegation Jan 2013: Final Programme

Author/Source: LBBC Events

Date: 31st Jan 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:The final mission programme for the LBBC Business Delegation to Libya, which took place earlier this month (January 2013).

LBBC Business Delegation Jan 2013: Guide to Delegates

Author/Source: LBBC Events

Date: 31st Jan 2013

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:The official guide to delegates who attended the LBBC Business Delegation to Libya, January 2013.

Libya's Investment Needs 2013

Author/Source: The Libya Herald Supplement (November 2012)

Date: 4th Dec 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:The Libya Herald is the leading English-language newspaper covering social, political, economic and cultural news in the 'New Libya'.

This is the Herald's first printed supplement - an informative examination of Libya's investment needs for 2013, covering every industry sector and with contributions from respected journalists and commentators on Libya's emerging business scene as well as from the Herald's in-house writers.

Libya's Post-Qaddafi Transition: The Nation-Building Challenge

A year after Qaddafi's death, the light-footprint approach adopted for Libya's postwar transition is facing its most serious test. Security, the political transition, and economic development all present challenges. The security situation requires immediate attention and could worsen still. Until the militias are brought under state control, progress on other fronts will be very difficult to achieve. In most cases, the appropriate approach is a combination of incentives and broad-based negotiation between Tripoli and militia leaders. Only in extreme cases should the use of force be considered. On the political front, Libya and international actors deserve credit for the successful elections in July, but the political challenges ahead are significant. Libya still needs to write a constitution, and in doing so, it must determine the degree to which power is centralized in Tripoli and how to ensure inclusive yet stable governing institutions. Libya also needs to begin rethinking the management of its economy, and especially of its energy resources, to maximize the benefit to its citizens, reduce corruption, and enable private enterprise to flourish in other areas, such as tourism. Libya also needs sustained assistance — mainly technical in nature — from the countries that helped oust Qaddafi lest the transition run off the rails. Despite its role in helping topple Qaddafi, NATO is absent from Libya today. A greater role for the alliance is worth exploring, for example training Libyan security officials and forces and providing technical assistance for security-sector reform. An international Friends of Libya conference on assistance to Libya is warranted. Post-conflict transitions normally span years, and Libya's will be no different. Nevertheless, if current challenges are handled adroitly, Libya could still emerge as a positive force for democratic stability in North Africa and a valuable partner against al-Qaeda.

Officer at the Tripoli Military College, and the Air Force College of Misrata

Resigned from the Army in 1990

Served as the head of Misrata Military Council in 2011

LBBC Director General's Newsletter November 2012

Author/Source: Robin Lamb

Date: 2nd Nov 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

"The General National Congress’s (GNC) approval on 31 October of the Cabinet proposed by Prime Minister Ali Zaidan opens a new phase in Libya’s post-revolution development.

You will recall that following elections in July, the National Transitional Council (NTC), which had ruled Libya since the revolution, was dissolved and gave way to the elected GNC on 9 August 2012. The GNC elected Dr Mustafa Abu Shagur as Prime Minister on 12 September but rejected his Ministerial nominees and dismissed him on 7 October. Ali Zaidan was elected PM on 14 October and presented his government to the GNC on 30 October..."

The Libya Report News Analysis - Libya’s long-term budget challenge

Author/Source: The Libya Report

Date: 12th Oct 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Libya’s long-term budget challenge

Last week the International Monetary Fund (IMF) published the latest version of its twice-yearly World Economic Outlook, a set of projections on the global economy for the next five years.

Assembling economic forecasts for Libya is no easy task, given the dearth of reliable local data since the end of last year’s conflict and the ongoing uncertainty in the political arena. Nor does any Libyan government institution openly publish any projections, making it impossible to compare and contrast local and international sources. But however accurate they may be, the IMF’s figures ask some interesting questions about the long-term picture...

The Libya Report News Analysis – Aviation still waiting for take-off

Author/Source: The Libya Report

Date: 27th Sep 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Aviation still
waiting for take-off

Recent events have not been a great advertisement for Libyan
aviation. A power cut shut down Tripoli International Airport for more than 12
hours in early September, an unannounced strike by air traffic controllers a
week later caused long delays to flights, and airspace was temporarily closed
over Benghazi after the 11 September attack on the US diplomatic mission,
forcing cancellations and diversions.

Libya’s Post Election Landscape: The Outlook for International Business

Author/Source: ie consultancy+

Date: 12th Sep 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Libya’s General National Congress today announced the election of Dr. Mustafa Abushagur as Libya’s new Prime Minister. It is currently expected that Dr. Abushagur will have a period of two weeks to select his cabinet, after which a further period of two weeks will be allocated to hear appeals before confirming the cabinet appointments.

Libya Political Overview

Author/Source: ie consultancy+

Date: 6th Sep 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

This document is a brief overview of the political landscape in Libya. Business travellers should consider the political timetable detailed herein when planning visits to Libya - given that we won't see a new government take office until mid-October at the earliest, it seems that a number of business missions and trade delegations may be jumping the gun and going out too early.

At ie consultancy we have significantly increased our capacity to provide detailed market research across a range of sectors and conduct due-diligence enquiries on the ground. You can find more information about our range of business advisory and support services at www.ie-consultancy.com - please note our new website will be going live in mid-September.

Libyan Election Guide ~ July 2012 [summary]

Author/Source: The Inkerman Group

Date: 3rd Jul 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:The Inkerman Group Guide to the Libyan Elections ~ July 2012: A summary of the Inkerman Group's guide to the upcoming Libyan elections. For access to the complete Guide or for more information about this report Tel: +44 (0) 1233 646940 or email: enquiries@inkerman.com.

Libya Elections Analysis: So who are they and what do they stand for?

Author/Source: George Grant

Date: 1st Jul 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

George Grant moved to Tripoli a few months ago to become deputy editor for the Libya Herald, the first post-Qaddafi English-language daily, as well as the new Libya correspondent for The Times (UK). This article is his "attempt to decode what's going on with Libya's forthcoming - and it has to be said somewhat baffling - elections". LBBC Online has featured work by George Grant previously in his role as Research Fellow at the Henry Jackson Society (see the entry below dated March 2, 2012 "The State of Libya: One Year Beyond the Revolution").

Libyan Election Workshop: Invitation to UK-based Libyans

Author/Source: Abeer Maghribi NTC Executive Officer / International Organization for Migration Out of Country Voting

Date: 1st Jul 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

An invitation to Libyan citizens residing in the UK to attend a workshop explaining the election process. The workshop is at 7pm on Monday 2nd July at:

Libya Election July 2012 - Political Party Profiles

Author/Source: Libya Herald

Date: 30th Jun 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Profiles of three of the four main political parties set to contest Libya’s first National Congress Election on 7th July. This will be the first national election in Libya since the revolution and the fall of the former regime, and the first general election in the country since 1952. Out-of-country voting will take place over five days, from 3-7 July, 2012, in the following countries: Canada, Germany, Jordan, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom and the United States.

Libyan Ministry of Planning Procurement Notice (Extension)

Author/Source: Libya Ministry of Planning

Date: 28th Jun 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

This document is a Request for Expressions of Interest (EOI), the first procurement notice issued by the Libyan Ministry of Planning, with respect to consultancy services for existing contracts/projects in Libya. It provides details for how to submit proposals to the Ministry and extends the deadline for submissions to Thursday 5 July 2012.

Libya Election July 2012

Author/Source: LBBC

Date: 25th Jun 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Libya Election 2012

According to the Wall Street Journal, four parties are likely to dominate the July 7th polls:

1. The National Front: Affiliated with a 1980s-era anti-Gaddafi group, the party is led by Mohammed al-Magariaf, an exiled intellectual dissident leader from a prominent eastern Libyan family.

2. The Justice and Construction Party: The political arm of the Muslim Brotherhood. Its leader is Mohamed Sowan, a Gaddafi-era political prisoner.

3. The Libyan National Party: An Islamist group led by religious scholar Ali al-Salabi and former Islamist militant Abdul Hakim Belhaj.

4. The National Forces Alliance: An umbrella coalition of liberal parties led by Mahmoud Jibril, the head of the rebel government that received Western support for efforts to overthrow the Gaddafi regime. Mr. Jibril isn't on the list of candidates.

The Commission for Integrity and Patriotism

Around 2500 people will contest 120 seats reserved for individual candidates, while over 100 parties will compete for the remaining 80 seats in a 200-body parliamentary assembly that will have full control over national security, foreign affairs and Libya's oil wealth.

A vetting panel called the Commission for Integrity and Patriotism has scrutinised the estimated 4,000 candidates vying in the election, scheduled for July 7, the goal of which is to find and block those with ties to Gaddafi, his family and the former regime or considered traitors to the revolution that overthrew him.

At the start of campaigning this week, the panel said it had rejected 320 would-be candidates from taking part in the poll, while the election commission disqualified 650 others - a significant share of those who sought to run for office.

Libya: Now for the Three Commercial Ghosts

Author/Source: Raid Abu-Manneh and Wisam Sirhan (Mayer Brown LLP)

Date: 11th Jun 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Rather like Dickens’ Mr Scrooge, Libya under new management has, commercially, to confront three ghosts – Contracts Past, Present and Yet to Come. Tough decisions have to be made about them and those with business interests in Libya need to think hard about what the answers might be. So, legally, does the way things were provide a likely practical solution for the new Libya and its contracts or might the new commercial landscape be something completely different?

This article first appeared in a slightly different form in Building Magazine, 9 December 2011

Mayer Brown is a leading global law firm with offices in major cities across the Americas, Asia and Europe.

Resolution 103/2012: Special Report

Author/Source: Ibrahim E Mayet of ie. Consultancy +

Date: 30th May 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

Resolution
103/2012: Foreign participation in Joint Ventures and the rules for
opening Branch and Representative Offices in Libya

The Libyan Ministry of Economy has passed a
decree regulating the areas of activity and ownership for foreign participation
in the Libyan market.Resolution
103/2012, which sets out new rules for the establishment ofjoint venture companies,branch officesand representative offices,
lowers the barriers to entry for foreign businesses and represents a
significant step towards a more liberalised commercial environment in Libya.

It follows an earlier summary of Libya’s
commercial laws, which is published below (see:‘Company Formation Regulations
in Libya’, April 2012)

A full 10-page report, published on June 5th, includes a
comprehensive analysis of Resolution 103/2012 and examines in detail what these
changes to Libya’s commercial legal framework mean for foreign investors and
new market entrants.If you are planning a commercial venture in
Libya or considering the various partnership options available to international
businesses, this report is compulsory reading.

The full report is available to purchase for£400.00(zero-rated VAT). To pre-order a copy, contact the London or Tripoli offices of ie. Consultancy +

LBBC
members who would like to purchase a copy of the full report at a special
discounted price of£325.00should contact the Secretariat on:secretariat@lbbc.org.ukor call+44
(0) 20 7152 4051.

Law No. 36 2012: ‘The Administration of the Assets and Properties of Some Individuals’.

Author/Source: NTC and Central Bank of Libya

Date: 24th May 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

This document, translated from the Arabic, is entitled ‘The Administration of the Assets and Properties of Some Individuals’ and lists those individuals and companies whose assets Libya’s NTC has frozen.

The list covers a total of 338 entities, of which the first 260 are individuals and the remaining 79 are companies, including branches of foreign companies.

Following the list there are two notes dated 17 May, one from the NTC and one from the Central Bank of Libya (CBL), adding qualifications to the original decree which was made on May 2nd but only published this week.

For further commentary and context on these developments the following news stories may be of interest:

The Director General's report is a succinct record of proceedings of the LBBC's first full delegation to Libya since the ouster of the old regime.

Recent Economic Developments in Libya - Central Bank Presentation

Author/Source: Libyan Central Bank

Date: 9th May 2012

Doc type/Link: PPT

Synopsis:

This presentation, delivered by Ali Salim Al HibriDeputy Governor of the Central Bank of Libya,during the LBBC's multi-sector Delegation to Tripoli in April, covers the following topics:

An overview of the Libyan economy

An examination of the external sector and foreign trade

An examination of the public finances

An overview of the banking sector in Libya

A summary of the future outlook and prospects for Libya's economic development

Company Formation Regulations in Libya

Author/Source: Ibrahim E Mayet of i.e. Consultancy

Date: 10th Apr 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

N.B. The information in this entry has been updated by more recent developments: see the document entitled 'Special Report - Resolution 103/2012, 28 May 2012' in this section (above).

Company Formation in Libya

The information contained in this document is correct at the time of publication (April 10 2012). But due to the ongoing review process of Libya's commercial laws, these details may be subject to change*. The LBBC and i.e. Consultancy will endeavour to keep you informed of any changes as they occur. Any LBBC members and website visitors who are interested in setting up in Libya can contact i.e. Consultancy – which has an excellent legal team and is well-placed to advise international clients regarding the rules and procedures for setting up a business in Libya.

Doing
Business in Libya – Q1 Review – 01.04.2012

There has
been a lot of talk and confusion around the commercial legal situation in
Libya. Some consultancies are telling their clients that the draft laws have
already been passed. For example they are advising companies to set-up Joint
Stock Companies on a 51%-49% basis.

i.e.
Consultancy has confirmation that the laws have NOT yet been passed and that
the draft proposals are still being reviewed by the new Libyan Minister of
Economy, Ahmed Salam Al Kohley and the Cabinet. The time-frame for a definitive
decision is unknown; things could change at any time. And even if new
regulations are introduced they will not necessarily be set in stone. Libya
really is in a state of transition!

*N.B. As part of the Ministry of Economy's current review process Branch Office Registration by international companies has been suspended until further notice. All other business set-up options are still in place. No further details are available at this time. [Thursday 12 April].

In the
medium term, whilemajor new
projects will not be commissioned by the interim government there are still
clear opportunities for international companies to participate in the essential
maintenance, development and reconstruction projects which are being
undertaken. This transitional period does present international companies with
an invitation to develop a presence and gain a foothold in the Libyan market.
Early engagement will benefit those willing to engage.

Following
the elections scheduled for June 2012 the current transitional government will
give way to a second temporary administration which will govern until full
elections are held in June 2013. Given the inevitable turn-over in public officials,
it is essential that British businesses engage with Libya’s growing private
sector – the professionals, companies and organisations which are likely to
remain constant throughout the political transition.

Setting up a business in Libya:

Proposed changes to Libyan
commercial law are currently in draft form; it is unclear when or even if
they will come into force.

The level of support or
resistance to the proposals from both the Libyan and international
business communities may affect the final outcome.

It appears that the proposals
will raise the bar for foreign companies, ostensibly in an attempt to
limit entry to companies which are serious and capable of achieving
success/longevity.

Unfortunately it will also
likely discourage SMEs.

It is considered unlikely that
any new laws would be applied retrospectively which would suggest now may
be a good time to set up.

Director General's Report on LBBC Visit to Libya 13-18 Jan 2012

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 27th Jan 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

"Oliver Miles, Deputy Chairman, and I paid a second LBBC reconnaissance visit to Libya from 13-18 January 2012. Our aim was to establish whether Libya was more prepared for a full business delegation than it had been when Lord Trefgarne and I were there in September. This time, we visited Tripoli and Misurata, having been advised against including Benghazi because of the preoccupation of decision makers there with local political challenges...."

Synopsis:This document describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the conclusion of an official staff visit to Libya in January 2012. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF's Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, and as part of other staff reviews of economic developments.

Libya Political & Security Assessment ~ January 2012:

Author/Source: Stirling Assynt

Date: 17th Jan 2012

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

An exclusive report by LBBC Council Member Stirling Assynt, assessing the current political and security situation in Libya. Tribal tensions, the role of local militias and the stability of the interim administration are all subjects under scrutiny.

Please note, this report can be accessed by LBBC members only

"The feasibility of business operations in Libya will, in the coming months at least, be largely determined by the security environment. Meanwhile, both political and security developments may have a significant impact on the allocation of contracts. Other industry concerns, such as corruption..."

LBBC Director General's Newsletter December 2011

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 21st Dec 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:On 16 December 2011, the Security Council Committee established under SCR 1970 (2011) to oversee sanctions on Libya removed the Central Bank of Libya (CBL) and the Libyan Foreign Bank (LFB) from its list of individuals and entities subject to the assets freeze. The Foreign Secretary immediately issued a statement welcoming the decision and claiming it meant that Libya’s government would now have full access to the significant funds needed to help rebuild the country.

LBBC Director General's Newsletter November 2011

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 24th Nov 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:The arrests of Saif al Islam Qadhafi and Abdullah Senussi apart, Libya has been overshadowed in the media recently by the euro’s tribulations and now by new turbulence in Cairo. Like me, no doubt, you have been watching to see when the political and economic situation in Libya would develop to a point where it would allow business and effective business visits to resume.

LBBC Council Members' Briefing by Patrick Forbes

Author/Source: Patrick Forbes

Date: 7th Nov 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:On 7 November Patrick Forbes of Qatar-based communications consultancy Forbes Associates briefed LBBC Council Members on the current situation in Libya. To read a report of this briefing click on the link.

Report: LBBC Briefing: Doing Business in the New Libya (18 Oct 2011)

Author/Source: Robin Lamb

Date: 26th Oct 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:A briefing event on Libya jointly organised by MEC International Ltd and the Libyan British Business Council (LBBC) was held on 18 October 2011 at the offices of FTI Consulting at Holborn Gate (26 Southampton Buildings), London WC2A 1PB. The event was hosted by Raoul Bhavnani, Senior Managing Director, Global Affairs at FTI Consulting.

The event was chaired by Oliver Miles, Executive Director of MEC International and a Board member of the LBBC. He announced that the event would be held under the Chatham House Rule1. This record does not therefore identify speakers or their affiliations.

Synopsis:Notes on Lord's Howell's speech at the LBBC/MEC briefing on Business Opportunities in the New Libya (18 Oct 2011)

LBBC Director General's Newsletter September 2011

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 5th Sep 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

For six months, the NTC and its partners have been preoccupied with winning the battle against Qadhafi. Now that the military campaign is drawing towards a conclusion and the NTC is turning its attention to stabilization, humanitarian relief and the restoration of basic supplies, it will soon focus on the needs for reconstruction and economic development…Shortly, there will once more be a role for international trade and investment – and the NTC’s public commitment to an economic policy along the lines I described is encouraging.

LBBC Director General's Newsletter August 2011

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 31st Aug 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

…events have done nothing to dispel fears that fault lines within the opposition could widen. Many have warned that it is a coalition of disparate organisations with diverse ideologies and objectives, united only at present by their common determination to rid Libya of the Qadhafi regime.

LBBC Director General's Statement July 2011

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 27th Jul 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

…William Hague announced the United Kingdom's recognition of the National Transitional Council as the sole governmental authority in Libya…Mr Hague also announced that at the request of the Arabian Gulf Oil Company (AGOCO), the UK would make available £91 million of the Company’s assets in the UK.

Document: LBBC Director General's Update June 2011

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 24th Jun 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

On 21 June the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) banned transactions with the Arab Turkish Bank, the North Africa International Bank and North Africa Commercial Bank. OFAC also designated six other entities as subject to US sanctions. They are: General Company for Chemical Industries (aka Abu Kammash, aka GCCI) ; General National Maritime Transport Company (GNMTC); Ghana Libya Arab Holding Company (GLAHCO); GLAHCO Hotels and Tourism Development Company Ltd (aka Golden Tulip Hotel Accra); Libyan Norwegian Fertiliser Company (LIFECO); Pak-Libya Holding Company...

LBBC Announcement - Advice to Members

Author/Source: LBBC and MEC International Ltd

Date: 17th Jun 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

The LBBC and MEC International Ltd held a joint meeting at the offices of Stephenson Harwood on 6 June when 100 participants heard presentations by Richard Northern (HM Ambassador Tripoli), Patrick Guthrie (Asset Freezing Unit, HM Treasury) and Guma El-Gamaty (UK Coordinator, National Transitional Council in Libya).

LBBC members seeking a license of exemption to financial sanctions or having other queries about asset freezing and financial sanctions relating to Libya are invited to co

LBBC Director General's Newsletter May 2011

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 9th May 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

The DG's regular newsletter examines the current developments in Libya and explains how the LBBC is helping to anticipate the changing situation in the interests of our members. Please click on the link below to read this document.

This is the fourth of the DG’s summaries detailing the international and UK measures now governing bilateral relations with Libya. This report covers topics including sanctions, oil exports and humanitarian aid, as well as ongoing developments with the political and diplomatic situation.

A supplement to the DG’s summary (of March 7th) detailing the international and UK measures now governing bilateral relations with Libya. Includes additional advice from the Treasury with respect to trade with Libya.

The DG’s summary of a meeting attended by Lord Trefgarne and Robin Lamb of the LBBC and Lord Green, during which the Minister answered a number of questions about the current situation in Libya, UK policy, the workings of international sanctions and the prospects of relief for British companies from the impact of sanctions, with particular focus on the oil and gas industry in Libya.

LBBC Report: Bilateral Business Relations with Libya

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 7th Mar 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

The DG’s summary of the international and UK measures now governing bilateral relations with Libya. Includes advice on travel, trade and asset-freezing from the FCO, the Department for Business Innovation and Skills and the Treasury.

These presentations were delivered during the LBBC Healthcare Delegation to Tripoli, 14-17 February 2010. During this three-day event, the delegates were addressed by over a dozen government officials, industry spokespeople and healthcare experts who delivered presentations on a variety of important topics concerning the Libyan healthcare industry. Click on the 'READ MORE' button below for a list of these presentations and speakers, together with brief introductions, biographies, a summary of each presentation’s content and, where available, a link to each of the speakers’ presentation notes (usually in PowerPoint 2003 or 2007 format).

LBBC Director Generals Newsletter February 2011

Author/Source: Robin Lamb, LBBC Director General

Date: 28th Feb 2011

Doc type/Link: PDF

Synopsis:

The DG’s regular newsletter examines the recent developments in Libya and explains how we are helping anticipate the changing situation in the interests of our members.

“It is too early to tell how long economic disruption will continue or how serious the impact of political events will be on established business in Libya. But not all the news need be bad – and disruption can also bring opportunity….Our contacts have always gone beyond the Qadhafi regime and include some of the key figures who are now forming the nucleus of an alternative government in Benghazi…[they] have enabled us to keep in direct touch with developments in Libya in the last two weeks and, as soon as the dust settles, we plan an early visit to the country to engage and expand our network.”

Useful Links

The following Websites (in alphabetical order) provide useful information for companies and organisations doing business in or with Libya. Watch this space as new links will be added regularly. If you are a website owner and would like your site included in this list, please contact secretariat@lbbc.org.uk

BBC Country Profile: Libya

The BBC’s Country Profile of Libya provides an excellent and up-to-date summary of basic information about Libya; for further up-to-date information see also the FCO’s country profile.

British Council, Libya:

The British Council in Libya connects people with learning opportunities and creative ideas from the UK and aims to build lasting relationships between the UK and Libya.

British Embassy, Tripoli:

Here you can learn about the range of services that the Embassy in Tripoli provides to Libyan and British citizens and businesses.

MEC International

MEC International is a global business development and business intelligence consultancy which helps corporate clients expand their international markets through the provision of unique insight and analysis, and has particular experience in energy, finance and the Middle East and North Africa. LBBC Deputy Chairman Oliver Miles is an Executive Director of MEC International.

UK Trade & Investment

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) works with UK-based businesses to help ensure their success in international markets, providing business opportunities, expert trade advice and support to UK-based companies wishing to grow their commercial interests overseas; it also encourages the best overseas companies to look to the UK as their global partner of choice.